March sees the beginning of the next motoring year, as the first big motor show of 2018 takes place in Geneva and the plate change comes into effect here in the UK.
With the 18-plate coming in on March 1, we thought we would take a look at the best cars on offer with the new designation and see which of the cars released since the ’67 plate was introduced back in September you should look at.
Citroen C3 Aircross
The quirky crossover arrived on the scene late last year, and with it came stand-out looks, lots of interior space and a drive suited to both the urban and rural environments. It can be fitted with a lot of great tech, too, as it can have a built-in dashcam, a head-up display and 12 driving aids. Mate all of that with an efficient engine line-up, and you’ve got yourself a handy crossover.
DS 7 Crossback
As the largest offering in the DS range, the 7 Crossback offers practicality and style in a good-looking package. By taking on the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes, the DS 7 undercuts all of them in terms of pricing – and even does well in terms of driving feel – making it a handy option in the large SUV segment.
Ford Fiesta
It is difficult to look past the country’s most popular car and with the latest addition being even better than the last, why wouldn’t we include it here? Stylish looks paired with an all-round great drive, the Fiesta continues to lead the way for the Blue Oval in the UK. For urban users, this car is difficult to ignore as it is affordable, well-built and spacious – no wonder it has been the best-selling car in the UK over the last decade.
Honda Civic
If you’re after a large hatchback that stands out from the crowd and looks like it’s from the future, then look no further than the Civic. Fitted with efficient and exciting engine options alongside a brilliant manual transmission, the latest iteration of the hatchback is arguably the best yet – as the space inside is also one of the best in its class. If you want one that looks even more ludicrous, go for the Type R – which is one of the best hot hatches right now.
Kia Stinger
What was seen as one of the major surprises of last year’s releases, the Kia Stinger has plenty to offer for those in the sporty saloon market. Excellent styling, great performance and lots of practicality, the Stinger is a great alternative to the German monopoly on the dynamic executive car market. Three interesting trims, including the top-end GT, and good engines make the Stinger a worthy option.
Nissan Leaf
With electric cars the next step in motoring, it might be worth your while looking at the best one currently on offer – the Nissan Leaf. The latest version was unveiled towards the end of 2017 and it revolutionised the styling of the curvy model before it. An extended range paired with great driver tech means the Leaf is a worthy competitor in the hatchback market – oh, and to add to that, it doesn’t emit anything on the road.
Peugeot 5008
Following the dreary second-generation MPV, the new 5008 was remodelled as an SUV and brought with it a truly futuristic look. The large seven-seater brings plenty of space and a well-thought-out interior design to work alongside a relaxing driving experience. The Peugeot 508 can take on the market with lots to offer.
Seat Arona
Seat’s compact SUV combines Volkswagen’s ubiquitous MQB chassis and build quality with the brand’s recognisable styling and driving feel to make an interesting daily driver. Despite its diminutive exterior dimensions, it is actually very spacious inside and when you add good levels of technology to that mix, it is difficult to put any other affordable compact crossover in front of it in the pecking order.
Volkswagen Polo
In terms of city cars, Volkswagen is difficult to look past, and with the latest version of the Polo hitting showrooms at the start of 2018, this could well be the urban car of the moment. Reliable, good to look at and nice to drive, the sixth-generation Polo is the largest one yet, but is still compact enough to whizz around cities with consummate ease. With a GTI model too, it could be the pocket rocket you’ve been searching for.
Volvo XC40
As it is built by argaubly the safest car builder on the market, people will automatically be drawn to the Volvo. But when you add to that a comfortable ride and excellent styling both inside and out, the XC40 is an excellent option in the premium compact SUV segment. After being voted WhatCar?’s 2018 Car of the Year, the baby in Volvo’s SUV line-up truly stands out from the pack. Arguably the best car you can pick up when March 1 comes around.
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